I’ve got a really good feeling about 2026. And that’s saying something, because 2025 has been unbelievable one of those rare years where TV genuinely felt exciting again. Big titles landed, smaller shows broke through, and people actually talked about what they were watching.
What’s surprised me most is that it doesn’t feel like it’s slowing down. If anything, it feels like it’s continuing and even spilling over into film as well. Next year looks just as strong, if not stronger, across the board. After a few pretty rough years where TV (and cinema) felt uneven at best, it suddenly feels brilliant again.
It’s not just about big names coming back either. It’s the right kind of TV: strong casts, smart writing, and shows that trust the audience. The kind of shows that get recommended, argued about, and watched together.
Here’s why these are the ones I’m most excited about and where we’ll be watching them.
Seven Dials
Where to watch: Netflix
This is one I’m quietly very excited about. Seven Dials is a new Agatha Christie adaptation, and honestly, when these are done right, they’re unbeatable. It’s being led by Helena Bonham Carter and Martin Freeman, which already tells you the tone is going to be character-driven rather than flashy for the sake of it.
That’s what gives it real potential. Christie stories live and die by atmosphere, misdirection, and performances, and this cast feels perfectly suited to that world. I’m hoping for something that feels cosy, tense, and addictive — the kind of mystery you end up binging without meaning to.
Young Sherlock
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
This is probably the biggest “could be brilliant if they get it right” show on the list. Sherlock Holmes is such an overdone character that the only way this works is if it brings something genuinely new — and setting it during his younger years does exactly that.
The lead role is played by Hero Fiennes Tiffin, and the idea of watching Sherlock become Sherlock — rather than already knowing everything — is what sells it for me. If they lean into character, intelligence, and slow-burn mystery rather than gimmicks, this could be a real standout.
It feels like a gamble, but it’s the kind of gamble that could really pay off.
Ludwig – Season 2
Where to watch: BBC One / BBC iPlayer
I absolutely loved Ludwig. It was one of those shows that snuck up on me — clever, funny, gentle, and surprisingly emotional. David Mitchell was perfect in the role, and the whole thing felt confident without trying too hard.
That’s why I’m so pleased it’s coming back. It doesn’t need to reinvent itself; it just needs to do more of what it already does well. Smart puzzles, awkward humour, and characters you actually care about. Season 2 feels less like a risk and more like a reward.
The Traitors – Series 4
Where to watch: BBC One / BBC iPlayer
Let’s be honest: this show isn’t everyone’s cup of tea — but everyone in Britain will still watch it. It’s become one of those rare shows that cuts across age groups and tastes. People who claim they “don’t watch reality TV” will still have opinions on it.
Claudia Winkleman hosting is half the appeal, and every series proves that the format just works. It’s messy, tense, ridiculous, and completely addictive. Whether you love it or hate it, it dominates conversation, and that’s why it belongs on this list.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
Where to watch: HBO / Max
This feels like the Game of Thrones spin-off that could finally get it right. Based on the Dunk and Egg stories, it’s smaller, more personal, and more character-focused than the original series.
That’s exactly why it has potential. Less world-ending stakes, more humanity. If they resist the urge to overdo spectacle and trust the material, this could end up being one of the strongest fantasy shows in years.
Line of Duty (Return)
Where to watch: BBC One / BBC iPlayer
The fact that Line of Duty is coming back still feels slightly unreal. For a while, this was the show — the one everyone watched live, the one everyone argued about the next morning.
If it can capture even some of that tension again, it’ll instantly become appointment TV. The appetite is absolutely still there.
Doctor Who
Where to watch: BBC One / BBC iPlayer
Doctor Who always exists in its own category. Even when it’s changing or finding its footing again, it still feels like an event especially at Christmas.
It’s one of those shows that reminds you how powerful long-running TV can be when it’s treated with care. Even a single special can feel bigger than most full seasons of other shows.
Pride and Prejudice
Where to watch: BBC One / BBC iPlayer
This is one that will always divide opinion, because Pride and Prejudice has been adapted so many times and everyone already has a favourite. That’s exactly why this new version is interesting, though. When it’s done well, it reminds you how sharp, funny, and emotionally clever the story actually is.
With a fresh cast and a modern sensibility, this doesn’t feel like a pointless remake — it feels like an opportunity. If it trusts the writing, the characters, and the quiet drama rather than trying to reinvent the wheel, this could easily become one of those adaptations people genuinely fall in love with.
What makes 2026 exciting isn’t just one big headline show it’s the combination.
Big franchises, smart mysteries, comforting British drama, and shows that genuinely bring people together.
It feels like TV people will actually sit down to watch again not just scroll past.
And honestly? I can’t wait.